In a previous episode of Farmer’s Inside Track, we explored strategies for adapting to climate change and maximising efficiency with tips on climate-smart beef production. In that discussion, experts highlight the importance of sustainable grazing practices in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving soil health, and promoting ecosystem resilience.
According to Motshabi Mokolobate-Chadyiwa, a junior researcher at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), sustainable grazing practices play a critical role in climate-smart beef production systems.
“These practices optimise land use, enhance soil health, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote ecosystem resilience,” Mokolobate-Chadyiwa explains in this episode.
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The importance of sustainable practices
“Sustainable grazing practices can also reduce erosion and runoff. Nutrient runoff into water bodies is minimised, thereby protecting water quality and mitigating environmental pollution.”
She also explains how rotational grazing can have enhance carbon sequestration in soils and more. However, building a climate-smart beef production system goes beyond what happens on pastures.
Furthermore, Mokolobate-Chadyiwa discusses other crucial strategies. “Improving feed quality and efficiency can significantly reduce methane emissions per unit of beef produced.”
She also gives insight into the importance of selecting cattle breeds best adapted to local conditions and how this not only benefits the animal’s well-being but also ensures the herd’s resilience in the face of a changing climate.
In this episode, she also discusses:
- How the beef industry can better collaborate;
- Research gaps in livestock breeding in the face of climate change and more.
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
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Option 3: Click here to listen on Google Podcast.
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